New to me 1863 new model Sharps Carbine

[moosedog]

Finally found myself a nice original 1863 New Model Sharps Carbine in very nice condition that has the 1868 conversion to 50/70. The bore is in very good condition with sharp lands and grooves. Thought I'd share it here and find out a little more. I'm thinking 1864 for the year made? How close am I?

I was informed that the "Z" stamp on the stock is a Confederate "clean, repair and reissue " stamp, so I guess this gun went back and forth a few times. Appears to maybe not have been issued after the 1868 conversion.
I own a few CW Muskets but this my first Sharps. Thanks for any and all comments.

[Jim Wimbish, 10395]

The only Sharps shot in the NSSA are percussion. There were no guns using the 50/70 centerfire cartridge during the War. Postwar, you can find trapdoors starting with the Second Allin Conversion and 50/70 Sharps. I tried shooting a 50/70 trapdoor years ago with smokeless powder with less than stellar results and moved on to other guns. I have a 45/70 Sharps that shoots very well with several different smokeless powders. Your Sharps should shoot well with black powder and perhaps some members here have some experience shooting them and can give you some advice.

[Scott Lynch 1460V]

Private message sent. Scott

[Southron Sr.]

Dixie Gun Works sells 50/70 cartridge cases:

https://www.dixiegunworks.com/index/page/product/product_id/7931/category/338/category_chain/578,342,338/product_name/KA2705+5070+BRASS+CASES+%28QTY+OF+1%29


The cases are kinda pricey. You can buy 50/70 reloading dies and bullet moulds. So you can load your own ammo.

[gemmer]

Finally found myself a nice original 1863 New Model Sharps Carbine in very nice condition that has the 1868 conversion to 50/70. The bore is in very good condition with sharp lands and grooves. Thought I'd share it here and find out a little more. I'm thinking 1864 for the year made? How close am I?

I was informed that the "Z" stamp on the stock is a Confederate "clean, repair and reissue " stamp, so I guess this gun went back and forth a few times. Appears to maybe not have been issued after the 1868 conversion.
I own a few CW Muskets but this my first Sharps. Thanks for any and all comments.

3 or 6 groove barrel?